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Rural Recreation Officer logo

Rural Recreation 

Department of Rural and Community Development Logo

Rural Recreation in Louth: Embracing Nature, Community, and Well-being

Nestled on the east coast of Ireland, County Louth offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and community spirit. Under the umbrella of Louth Local Development, the Rural Recreation Programme is dedicated to promoting outdoor activities, whilst preserving the natural environment, and enhancing the well-being of our residents and visitors. Discover the Great Outdoors: Louth’s landscape is a tapestry of rolling hills, lush woodlands, tranquil rivers, and scenic coastlines. Rural Recreation encourages everyone to immerse themselves in these natural wonders through a variety of activities: • Hiking and Walking Trails: Explore well-maintained trails that traverse historical sites, forests, and breathtaking vistas. Our trails are designed for all fitness levels, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beauty of Louth on foot. • Water Activities: Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and angling plus wild swimming, sailing, diving, stand up paddleboarding (SUP), kite surfing etc. in Louth’s rivers and lakes. These activities provide not only relaxation but also a chance to connect with nature in a serene setting. • Other Land Based Activities: Discover dedicated greenways, cycle trails, which are perfect for both casual rides and serious cycling enthusiasts. Plus, activities such as horse riding, orienteering, and rock climbing, etc. which are set in picturesque countryside and charming villages. Louth Local Development employs a Rural Development Officer (RRO) dedicated to looking after rural recreation in Co. Louth.

Townley Hall Woods, Boyne Valley Camino, Co Louth

Rural Recreation Officer

The role of the Rural Recreation Officer (RRO) in County Louth is to coordinate and oversee the management and enhancement of trails and promote outdoor recreation activities within County Louth. The RRO is responsible for carrying out the National Outdoor Recreation strategy- ‘Embracing Ireland’s Outdoor 2023-2027, overseeing work on the general upkeep, upgrade, and rerouting of trails, and assisting Fáilte Ireland in the development, marketing, and promotion of trails and key walking destinations. The RRO also has a key role in the marketing and promotion of trails in the area and assist local communities in developing new routes as agreed by the relevant authorities. The RRO works closely with landowners, tourists, and other stakeholders to promote strong relationships and address any concerns. They also manage maintenance plans, conduct trail inspections, and administer recreation program claims, materials, and funding. If you need more information on the Walks Scheme and the role of Rural Recreation Officers, please click on The Walks Scheme in the menu. The responsibilities of the rural recreation officer include: •Carrying out of the National Outdoor Recreation Strategy 2023-2027. •Management of the Walks Scheme. •Overseeing work on the general access, upkeep, upgrades and rerouting of trails. •Assisting Fáilte Ireland in the development, marketing and promotion of trails and key walking destinations, including media and trade visits. •Working with local communities in developing trails and assisting in organising walking festivals. •Assisting with the implementation of the ‘Leave No Trace’ initiative.

Family Bike Trip

View Gallery

Images of County Louth walking trails, hiking and cycling.

For further information on this programme please contact

+353 87 6155375

Fáilte Ireland logo
Sports Ireland Outdoors logo
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